A black eye can be embarrassing and nasty, not to mention painful. However, there is something you can do to minimize the pain you experience, the length of time you have your black eye, and the size and color of it.

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Steps

Method 1 of 2: Treating the Injury Right Away

1

If possible, apply ice as soon as you are injured. You can make this more comfortable by wrapping your ice pack in a thin cloth or clean towel. Your black eye is a bruise caused by a build-up of blood under the skin that forms after tiny blood vessels, called capillaries, are damaged. Cold temperatures cause these vessels to contract, restricting the amount of blood that is released.

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2

Remove the ice after ten to twelve minutes. Extreme, prolonged cold isn't good for your skin or muscles, and keeping the ice on for too long can cause further damage.

3

Reapply the ice after you have given your eye fifteen minutes to rest.

4

Repeat steps two and three for as long as possible. Don't be afraid to restart the "ice cycle" later on, even a few days after you were injured. Ice will help you heal faster and numb the pain.

Method 2 of 2: Treating the Injury After 24 to 48 Hours

1

If it has been more than a day since your initial injury, you can switch from ice to a warm compress. The warmth will help the pooled blood begin to recirculate, reducing the discoloration around the injury.

2

Saturate your cloth in warm water that is not too hot to the touch. If your household sinks produce warm water, you can use the warm water from the sink. Otherwise, heat some water for a few minutes in a microwave or on a stove top.

3

Wring out the excess water and press the cloth to the discolored area until the cloth is no longer warm. If this is uncomfortable, remove the cloth for a few minutes until it is cool enough to rest comfortably against your skin.

4

Repeat this cycle over the course of a few hours. If you are still experiencing pain, you can alternate warm compresses with ice packs to reduce pain and stimulate blood flow at the same time.

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Warnings

If you have double vision, or your sight has become fuzzy or unclear, this indicates a more serious injury needing medical assistance.

If you have suffered physical abuse or assault or were injured due to another party's negligence, contact the police or a lawyer. Someone has committed a crime, and it is your responsibility to aid the legal process and ensure your own safety.

Tips

Try your best to keep your head elevated. You can prop yourself up on pillows or rest in a comfortable chair. Doing this helps reduce the blood flow to the injured area.